Before 1974, SDSO personnel who went above and beyond the call of duty were awarded a simple 8.5″x11″ piece of paper with a check mark next to the reason for which they were being honored. In 1974, Sheriff John Duffy switched from the simple paper to a medal. We apologize, but we do not currently have the records for awards prior to that point.
If you are a recipient of an SDSO Medal and don’t see your name on this list, please contact the Museum at info@SanDiegoSheriffsMuseum.org.
Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of this Department who distinguish themselves by displaying an act(s) in the face of imminent and personal life-threatening peril and in an official capacity.
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Medal Of Valor
The Medal of Valor is the Department's second highest award and is awarded to Department members who distinguish themselves by acts of outstanding personal bravery and heroism.
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Medal of Courage
The Medal of Courage is the Department's third highest award and shall be awarded to Department members who, intelligently perform, while acting in an official capacity, distinguish themselves by choosing to confront danger, uncertainty or intimidation.
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Silver Cross
The Silver Cross is awarded to a Department member who, while acting in an official capacity, is seriously wounded or killed as the result of a hostile or life-threatening encounter.
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Medal for Lifesaving
The Medal for Lifesaving is awarded to Department members who distinguish themselves by personally performing extraordinar acts that save human lives, which, otherwise, would have resulted in certain death.
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Distinguished Service Medal
The Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to members of this Department who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in assigned duties with loyalty and dedication over a prolonged period.
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Medal of Merit
The Medal of Merit is awarded to Department members who perform superior accomplishments, which result in significant contributions to the efficient operation of the Department.
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Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of this Department who distinguish themselves by displaying an act(s) in the face of imminent and personal life-threatening peril and in an official capacity.
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Medal Of Valor
The Medal of Valor is the Department's second highest award and is awarded to Department members who distinguish themselves by acts of outstanding personal bravery and heroism.
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Medal of Courage
The Medal of Courage is the Department's third highest award and shall be awarded to Department members who, intelligently perform, while acting in an official capacity, distinguish themselves by choosing to confront danger, uncertainty or intimidation.
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Silver Cross
The Silver Cross is awarded to a Department member who, while acting in an official capacity, is seriously wounded or killed as the result of a hostile or life-threatening encounter.
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Medal for Lifesaving
The Medal for Lifesaving is awarded to Department members who distinguish themselves by personally performing extraordinar acts that save human lives, which, otherwise, would have resulted in certain death.
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Distinguished Service Medal
The Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to members of this Department who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in assigned duties with loyalty and dedication over a prolonged period.
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Medal of Merit
The Medal of Merit is awarded to Department members who perform superior accomplishments, which result in significant contributions to the efficient operation of the Department.
View Recipients